Goal: Stop the construction of a pipeline that would endanger environmental and residential areas in New York

The New York City Natural Gas Supply Enhancement Act that allows for the construction of a natural gas pipeline through areas of New York recently passed through the Senate. The only step remaining for the bill to become law is the signing by the President, and it is important that this does not happen. Besides the fact that the potential pipeline builder has a dangerous track record, the construction of the pipeline could result in the destruction of several areas in and around New York.

New York City’s mayor applauds the passage of the bill, claiming that it will build a “clean-energy future for New York” while “improving the health of all New Yorkers.” His statements ignore the dangers and environmental consequences of fracking. Natural gas pipelines can leak and rupture, exposing nearby civilians to health hazards, and William Transco, who would be constructing the pipeline, has a particularly negative track record. In addition to this, natural gas pipelines running through New York would likely lead to contaminated drinking water.

The pipeline would run through wetlands in Jamaica Bay, under Riis Park beach, and near Kings Plaza, a busy shopping center in Brooklyn. The wetlands in Jamaica Bay were only recently restored, and the construction of the natural gas pipeline introduces serious risks to this ecosystem that many creatures rely on.

The areas where the pipeline would be constructed are areas that were recently hit by Hurricane Sandy and are still in the recovery process. The natural gas pipeline introduces the risk of another catastrophe that could further devastate the region. By signing this petition you will urge President Obama to consider the health and safety of New York residents and Jamaica Bay wetlands by vetoing the New York City Natural Gas Supply Enhancement Act.

PETITION LETTER:

Dear President Obama,

The New York City Natural Gas Supply Enhancement Act, which recently passed through the Senate, would allow for the construction of a national gas pipeline through areas of New York City. While it is definitely important that we as a nation move in the direction of clean energy alternatives to oil and coal, natural gas is not the way to do it.

A natural gas pipeline would expose citizens living in the affected areas to serious health risks. Already this year, multiple accidents involving pipeline leaks or ruptures have occurred. The areas in New York where the pipeline would be constructed were recently hit by Hurricane Sandy; another disaster could have devastating effects for the area.

The pipeline puts important areas at risk, including the newly restored Jamaica Bay wetlands, and Kings Plaza, a busy shopping mall used by many of New York’s citizens. In addition to this, water contamination would certainly increase in nearby areas. I urge you to consider the dangers and health risks of constructing a natural gas pipeline in New York City, and veto The New York City Natural Gas Supply Enhancement Act.

Sincerely,

[Your Name Here]

Photo credit: sirdle via Flickr

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2 Comments

There have been enough natural disasters lately, and we don’t need an increase in the risk of additional man-made ones. We haven’t recovered from Sandy, and the rebuilding process will take a long time. This will only add insult to injury.